Keeping Sioux Falls Children Safe This Halloween

October 27, 2017October 27, 2017

Halloween is a fun time for Sioux Falls children and families, but it can also pose dangers that children do not face at other times of the year. By learning about these risks and taking appropriate preventative measures, parents can reduce the chances of their child sustaining an injury during Halloween festivities. When children are injured by Halloween accidents, they may have the legal right to be compensated by the person whose negligence caused the accident.

Fire Hazards

Many Halloween decorations can be flammable - some are even intentionally designed that way. Open flames in pumpkins and luminaries should always be closely supervised. Set them on sturdy table or surfaces which are out of reach of children or pets. Ensure that curtains, costumes, fabrics, and other materials are clear of the flame area. Safer alternatives, such as battery-operated LED lights, flashlights, or glow sticks should be used wherever possible. Children's costume material should be flame resistant or flame retardant. Teach children to stay away from any open flame, and keep their costume clear of all potential fire hazards.

Safe Costume Practices

Costumes can pose many different types of danger to children. Prop weapons can injure children if they are not designed safely. Masks can obstruct breathing, and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends using safer alternatives to masks, such as non-toxic makeup and decorative hats. Many costumes are made out of flammable material. When negligent design or manufacturing causes a product to injure a child, that child has the legal right to be compensated for his or her injuries and losses. This compensation can be obtained from the manufacturer, distributor, retailer, and anyone else responsible for placing the dangerous item in the "stream of commerce" which lead it to a child. Manufacturers of products which are specifically designed for children - such as costumes, toys, candy, and other Halloween goods - are held to a particularly high standard of safety.

Car Accidents

According to U.S. News and World Report, children are more than twice as likely to be killed in a car accident on Halloween than on any other night of the year. There are many reasons why car accident rates can increase on Halloween. Children tend to react unpredictably in the roadway. This problem is exacerbated by their excitement for the holiday, the effect of being in a large group, and the potential for impaired vision or movement by their costumes. Drivers must use particular caution on Halloween. Slow down, and watch especially carefully for children in dark costumes which are difficult to see. Be prepared to react to unexpected movements by children near your vehicle. Weather can also make it more difficult to avoid children in the roadway. Always slow down when there are slick roads or reduced visibility due to snow, sleet, rain, hail, or other weather conditions.

Contact an experienced Sioux Falls personal injury attorney as soon as possible after any accident. He or she will protect your child's legal right to be compensated for injuries resulting from a car accident, slip and fall, burns, poisoning, or other Halloween accidents.